Island Hopping in Sanriku Fukko National Park

Spend two days and one night exploring the stunning coastal scenery of Sanriku Fukko National Park as you ‘hop’ between three different island hiking trails on this energetic, enlightening and earth-conscious tour!

Walk your way to a sustainable future! 

Whilst you’ll spend two unforgettable days conquering three different trekking courses that showcase the unique beauty of each island, the only thing you’ll leave behind is your literal footprints! Not only does the cost of the tour include a carbon offset, but by using public transport, dining on local produce and immersing yourself in the local culture (including learning about traditional environmental conservation practices) you will leave minimal impact on the environment and maximum positive impact on the local community.

Sustainable initiatives featured in this tour include: 

・Encouraged use of reusable items (each participant should bring their own drink bottle, portable cutlery, towel, toiletries and other amenities) 

・Deepen your knowledge of the natural environment including conservation initiatives as your guide introduces you to the traditional way of life on the islands, and as you come into contact with diverse wildlife. 

・Enjoy dining on local cuisine / meals featuring local produce (reduce your food mileage) 

・Reduce your carbon footprint by only using public transport as well as opting to include a carbon offset in your tour fee. 

・Learn more about the local area’s history of natural disasters, recovery following the disaster of 2011 and how to prepared in the event of future disaster. 

During the tour you’ll trek across three different islands, staying overnight at the beautiful Hotel New Sakai in Ishinomaki.

• Tashirojima:

Also known as ‘cat island’ or ‘anime island’, not only does this island boast beautiful scenery but is home to several hundred cats who are considered to be divine guardians of the ocean and a bountiful catch!

• Ajishima:

Sometimes referred to as the ‘Hawaii’ of Tohoku, Ajishima is known for its picturesque beaches and is a popular swimming spot in the summer months.

• Kinkasan Island:

The entire island is considered sacred grounds of Koganeyama Shrine. If you visit three consecutive years you are said to be blessed with financial fortune! The island is also home to 500 deer who are considered divine messengers of the gods.

OUTLINE

MEETING PLACE

TOUR COURSE

DAY ONE

08:20 

Arrive at JR Ishinomaki Station and make your way to the Ajishima Line Chuo Ferry Pier. (5 mins by taxi or around 15 mins on foot) . Meet your guide at the pier. 

09:00 

Take the ferry to Tashirojima (cat island!) , arriving at around 09:36 

09:45 

Spend the morning trekking around the island with your guide on a 5km course, soaking up the scenery, learning about the history of the island and becoming acquainted with its furry residents!! 

(Stop for a light lunch along the way　**Not included** ) 

13:34 

Jump back on the boat and ‘hop’ to the next island — Ajishima, also known as the Hawaii of northern Japan! 

Here you’ll spend the afternoon exploring the island as you walk a 6km trekking course! 

Try not to trip over your feet as you’re bound to be distracted by the beautiful views. 

16:08 

Race the sun as you jump back aboard the ferry to the mainland to check-in at your lodging at Hotel New Sakai in Ishinomaki.

Spend the evening restoring your tired legs in the hot spring baths and fuelling up on a delicious dinner of fresh local seafood and sake! 

 

 

 

DAY 2

08:45

After a tasty breakfast, leave your hotel and head to the Oshika Peninsula Visitor Centre.

09:00

Here you’ll learn about the local nature, history and culture of the area, including the three islands of Tashirojima, Ajishima and Kinkasan. 

10:00

Get back on the water and head to Kinkasan island by water-taxi! 

10:30 

Start the Kinkasan trail! The whole trail is about 6km and includes some epic views over the surrounding Sanriku Coast. 

Enjoy a light lunch (Obento style) at the peak of Mt. Koganeyama. 

13:30 

At the end of the trail, visit the beautiful Koganeyama Shrine and pray for your financial fortune (though you’ll need to come back at least once every year for the next two years!!) 

15:00 

Head back to the mainland (Onagawa) by ferry. 

15:50

Spend an hour or so exploring the Onagawa water front with your guide and hearing about the experience and recovery of the area following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. 

17:00 

Tour ends. Make your way back to Sendai City on the local JR line from nearby Onagawa Station.